Portland mayoral debate gives undecided voters points to ponder

Ross William Hamilton/The OregonianEileen Brady, Charlie Hales and Jefferson Smith at a City Club of Portland debate Friday.

Many voters at a Portland mayoral debate Friday said afterward that they remain undecided, even with ballots in the May 15 primary set to start hitting mailboxes next week.

"Couldn't we just roll them all up in a ball?" asked Glenna Hayes, a Southwest Portland voter who leaned toward Brady before the event. "I feel almost more undecided now."

The three major candidates, meeting again after months of joint appearances across the city, mostly stuck to their scripts at the debate before the City Club of Portland.

Eileen Brady, a businesswoman who helped launch New Seasons Market, emphasized job creation. Jefferson Smith, a state legislator from east Portland, talked about his skills as a collaborator. And Charlie Hales, a former city commissioner, said he had the experience to lead Portland from Day One.

Debate topics ranged from utility rates to the Columbia River Crossing. Unlike at other campaign forums, panelists asked no questions about policing or public safety.

Brady said she would retrofit more Portland buildings to promote energy efficiency and seismic safety. She said she wanted to eliminate some middle management in city bureaus and foster job growth by streamlining Portland's business permitting system and realigning the Portland Development Commission.

"The tools don't match the mission," she said of the PDC.

Hales touted his proposal to use city money to leverage loans for small businesses. "It's a radical idea, but they've been doing it in the wild and crazy place of North Dakota for 95 years," he said, prompting laughter.

He said he didn't think the Columbia River Crossing could be built in its current configuration but that he would be a "constructive" partner in crafting a new version. He also advocated a "common-sense division" of services between the city and Multnomah County, plus efficiencies among the eight government agencies with jurisdiction in Portland.

Smith got one of the first laughs when a panelist alluded to former Mayor Bud Clark's famous flashing scene.

"No," Smith barked sarcastically, as if the panelist were about to ask him to repeat the move. "I can occasionally have a laugh," he added, "I will not strip."

Later, Smith said he would protect Portland's economy by ensuring that it remains a livable city. He repeated that he has been the strongest critic among the three of the Columbia River Crossing, a project he has called a "boondoggle" or "bridgedoggle." He proposed that the city and Multnomah County collaborate on budgets.

Pat Flynn said she was leaning in Hales' favor after the event. "He was very practical yet also idealistic," she said.

Frances Portillo said she remained undecided but that Smith embraced Portland's diversity. "He's very inclusive," she said. "He's not afraid to say he'll fight for everyone."

But Constance Hammond echoed the sentiment of many: "I wish I could say I came out clearheaded."